After a year of community-driven evolution, Dragon is Dead™ is officially slashing its way out of Early Access. Launching in full on June 6, 2025, the 1.0 release marks a major milestone for the fast-paced 2D ARPG roguelite, bringing with it a wealth of new content, polish, and a feral new hero.
What Is Dragon is Dead?
At its core, Dragon is Dead is a brutally stylish 2D hack-and-slash roguelite that mixes pixel-perfect action with deep RPG mechanics. Players battle through ever-shifting dungeons, chase wildly synergistic builds, and take on Guernian—the last Dark Dragon spreading corruption across a crumbling world.
Each run is a trial by fire. Each death is a step toward a stronger, smarter build. With a sprawling skill tree, hundreds of Legendary and Mythic items, and a combat system built for precision and speed, Dragon is Dead is a game of trial, error, and bloody triumph.
Since its Early Access debut, the game has gained praise for its fluid combat, addictive progression loop, and community-first development approach. Now, version 1.0 is ready—and it’s bigger, meaner, and sharper than ever.
What’s New in Version 1.0?
The full launch of Dragon is Dead brings major additions across the board:
Final Region & Boss BattleThe final chapter unfolds with the remnants of the Guernian clan entangled in the schemes of the Circle of the Dawn. Expect a climactic showdown and revelations that reshape the lore surrounding the dragon’s demise.
New Enemies
Introducing the Circle of the Black Dawn, a cult of fanatics who seized Guernian’s heart after his death. Their leader, Ashat, seeks nothing less than global domination—and you’re in the way.
Mythic Gear & Item Quenching
A new Mythic tier of gear debuts alongside a Quenching system, allowing players to further upgrade and refine equipment. These additions deepen build potential with powerful, high-risk options and unprecedented customization.
New Hero: Hunter of the Beast
A new playable character joins the roster—the feral Hunter of the Beast. With her primal skillset and unique combat rhythm, she brings a fresh flavor to the battlefield and opens new strategic possibilities.
Nightmare Mode x16
Post-game content gets a massive upgrade with 16 tiers of Nightmare Mode, offering new enemy patterns, mechanics, and systems designed to test even the most seasoned adventurers. This isn’t just a numbers buff—it’s a gauntlet of chaos.
With its 1.0 launch, Dragon is Dead steps into its final form—one built not only on fast-paced carnage but on the passion and feedback of a dedicated player base. Whether you’re a first-time slayer or returning for the endgame grind, there’s no better time to dive into the corruption and carve your legend.
